Toyota Prius

While the previous generation Prius was an evolution of the second-generation car it replaced, the fourth-generation Prius was a revolution. The biggest advance was an incredible 52 mpg overall, brought by a new, larger, and more efficient engine. Styling became much more controversial; its practical effect was that the Prius sits lower than before, sacrificing some access, visibility, and rear seat space. Still, this small hatchback can provide the family-hauling space of  most mid-sized sedans. Handling is more sure-footed and interior noise has been reduced. The interior doesn't feel as cheap as before, although some odd touches still remain, including some unconventional controls. 2017 brought standard forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. All-wheel drive was offered for 2019. Updates for 2020 include standard Apple CarPlay—but still no Android Auto. For the model year 2021, the Toyota Safety Sense system was upgraded to TSS2.0. This suite of safety equipment includes forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with low-light pedestrian and daytime bicyclist detection, lane departure warning and lane keeping assistance, automatic high beams and road sign assist. A version of lane keeping assistance (lane tracing assist) helps to keep the car in the center of the lane while the adaptive cruise control is being used. Adaptive cruise control is standard with the stop and go function. Blind spot warning and rear cross traffic warning are standard on all trims, except the LE Eco. Toyota’s rear seat reminder is now standard on all trim lines for 2022.

The 2010 redesign preserved all of the Prius virtues, while improving the driving position, making stability control standard,  and adding a larger engine. Although acceleration and the 44 mpg overall fuel economy remained the same, the car offered better crash protection and more available amenities. Typically, the car propels itself on electric power up to about 25 mph, and then the engine starts to provide motivation, as well as recharging the battery. Brake pedal feel is a bit touchy, but easy to get used to. The ride is firm and handling a bit reluctant. Still, the hatchback configuration, upright stance and roomy rear seat make the Prius one of the most sensible choices out there. Throw in bulletproof reliability and low running costs and you have an ideal transportation solution. Just be aware the car is mundane to drive, loud on rough pavement, buzzy when accelerating hard and the interior is rather cheap in look and feel. Don't bother with the plug-in version; it's more expensive and thanks to a very short battery-only range, brings little advantage over the regular Prius.

The Prius is an ideal transportation solution for anyone purely interested in low running costs and practicality. It gets 44 mpg overall and doesn't need to be plugged in. This four-door hatchback automatically switches between its electric motor and gasoline engine, or uses both, as needed. It can also drive at low speeds on electric power alone. The ride is firm, but compliant enough, although road noise and engine drone are noticeable. Handling is secure, but the car does not have a sporty nature. Some controls are complicated and the interior feels basic. High-end versions came with leather seats, which spruced up the interior a bit. If budget permits, focus on a 2007 or later Prius since it had standard side curtain airbags, an available rear view camera, and Bluetooth connectivity.